A Norman Native’s OU Gameday Guide: Where to eat, drink, shop & stay in Norman

A Norman native’s guide to OU gameday highlights the best local spots to eat, drink, shop, and stay for a true Sooner experience.

Friday, August 29th 2025, 12:39 pm

By: Anna Denison


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Whether you’re a lifelong Sooner fan or making your first trip to campus, Norman has plenty to offer on gameday. From local favorites to eat and drink, to shops for stocking up on OU gear, and even where to stay, here’s a guide to making the most of your visit.

Here is a Norman native’s guide to making the most of Sooner football Saturdays.

Where to Eat

The Diner

A Main Street institution for more than 100 years, The Diner has earned national attention from the Food Network but remains a hometown favorite. Known for its award-winning chili, friendly staff, and walls lined with local art and memorabilia, this spot proves the motto that “Food is Love.”

Midway Deli

A little hard to find, but worth the hunt, Midway Deli is legendary for sandwiches like the Governor’s Reuben and The Coach. The deli walls are covered in signatures—including Willie Nelson’s—and you might even see Barry Switzer enjoying lunch.

Classic 50s Drive-In

A nostalgic drive-in experience perfect for families or fans craving a quick bite before kickoff. You can't say you have been to Norman without stopping for a Sprittle and the best corn dog you will ever eat at Classics!

The Mont

Home of the famous Sooner Swirl, The Mont has been a gameday tradition since 1976. With its award-winning queso and festive atmosphere, it’s the place for pregame drinks or late-night bites.

The Library Bar & Grill

Named one of America’s best college town bars by Esquire, The Library offers a huge selection of beers on tap, cozy seating, and a patio that stays packed on fall Saturdays. Their pizza and nachos are staples for hungry fans.

Where to Shop

Occasions

From OU-themed platters and cups to children’s books by News 9's Toby Rowland, Occasions is the spot for gameday hosting essentials and OU gear.

Caymans

For fashion-forward Sooners, Caymans has been serving Norman since 1980 with clothing, accessories, and gameday gear.

Tulips Home & Gifts

Located in Campus Corner, Tulips carries everything from baby gifts to Oklahoma-inspired home décor, making it a charming stop before or after the game.

Where to Stay

Noun Hotel

Modern and stylish, the Noun is just steps from Campus Corner and the stadium, making it a prime spot for gameday visitors.

Fans can stop by ONE Bar upstairs for cocktails and food before kickoff, or head downstairs to the lobby lounge where the hotel hosts watch parties, DJs, and gameday specials, whether you’re booked for the weekend or just stopping in before heading to the stadium.

The Switzer Palace

For a true OU experience, fans can stay at Barry Switzer’s Airbnb, complete with memorabilia and a touch of Sooner history.

Anna Denison

Anna is the Lead Digital Producer at News 9 and has been creating and managing social media content and online articles for the newsroom since October of 2024. 

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